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Fr Moore's Well

Fr. Moores Well is one of the best known holy wells
in Co. Kildare and has enjoyed a huge attendance of pilgrims for over
the past hundred years. The patron of the holy site, Fr. John Moore,
was born in 1779 in Rathbride. John Moore (Kildare diocese) matriculated in 1799 in Maynooth and was ordained 26
May 1804 before being appointed as curate to Allen.

Many
traditions are connected with Fr. Moores Well and some say the
site was a place of holiness even before Fr. Moore's time, having associations
with St. Brigid.

It is reputed that the well was known as a Black Well where
mass was said during the sixteenth century.

Lord Edward Fitzgerald has written of Fr. Moore and states
that the priest was known to have healing powers. Fr. Moore
blessed the well, so that after his death, those who believed might still
be cured. A parish priest Fr. P. MacSuibhne, published prayers traditionally
recited when making visit to the well.

The protocol of a visit is as
follows: - Visits are usually made on a Friday or Sunday.
- A decade of the rosary is recited. - Prayers are said for Fr. Moore,
his parents and then ones
own intentions. - One may bathe with the blessed water of
the well to cure afflicted parts of the body. - Finally, three Hail Marys
are to be recited. (A total of three visits should be made, including
communion and confession.). Fr. Moore is buried at the west end of the
chapel ruins at Allen.